The Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Liberia signed an agreement on November 3, 2015 to further develop friendly relations between the two governments and strengthen their cooperation in the field of maritime transport on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, freedom of navigation and the principle of non-discrimination.
Under this agreement, ship-owners of Liberian registered vessels will be charged tonnage dues when visiting any port in the PRC at precisely the same rate as tonnage dues charged to vessels that are lawfully registered and flagged with the PRC.
LISCR has issued related Marine Notice which applies to Liberian flagged vessels entering and or operating in Chinese ports to provide further details,. The same measures shall be reciprocally applicable to Chinese flagged vessels entering and or operating in Liberian ports.
Pursuant to the Agreement, Liberia and the PRC will work cooperatively:
- to promote maritime and port development of both Parties on the basis of equality and mutual benefit, and eliminate any obstacles which might hamper the development thereof;
- to make full and effective use of the maritime fleet of the Contracting Parties so as to satisfy the transport demand of their foreign trade;
- to ensure the safety of navigation, including the safety of vessel, members of the crew, passenger and cargo, and the protection of environment;
- to enhance business, scientific and technological contacts and exchanges of experiences;
- to exchange information on activities of international organizations and on international maritime conventions and agreements.
Further details may be found by reading the following Marine Notice
Source: LISCR
